Description
Country French Garlic Soup is a rustic and comforting dish that celebrates the rich flavor of garlic. This hearty soup features roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and a savory broth that creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a warming, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something cozy and full of depth. With a touch of French countryside charm, this garlic soup is sure to become a favorite.
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Ingredients
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 2 slices stale baguette or crusty bread (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream (for a creamy version)
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the heads of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in aluminum foil. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until soft and fragrant. Once done, let it cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Garlic
Add the roasted garlic cloves to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and fresh thyme, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add Bread
Tear the bread into small pieces and add it to the soup. Stir well, and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the bread has softened and dissolved into the broth.
Step 5: Prepare the Eggs
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs until beaten. Slowly add the beaten eggs to the soup, stirring constantly to create egg ribbons throughout the broth. This will give the soup a velvety texture.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Roast the Garlic Well: Roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness and makes it mellow, so don’t rush this step.
- Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread soaks up the broth and adds texture to the soup. Fresh bread can be too soft and fall apart too quickly.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend the mixture with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until smooth.
- Make it Creamy: For a richer, creamier version of this soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Cuisine: French